Compare the highest-rated roofing professionals in Empire, Michigan. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A premier full-service roofing contractor specializing in both residential and commercial projects throughout the Leelanau Peninsula. Known for exceptional craftsmanship and expertise in handling insurance claims for storm damage caused by Lake Michigan's severe weather. They use high-quality materials and offer robust warranties.
A locally owned and operated company with deep roots in the Empire community. They excel in roof replacements and repairs designed to withstand heavy snow loads and high winds. Their team is highly skilled in a variety of materials, including asphalt shingles, standing seam metal, and synthetic slate, offering solutions for both modern and classic Northern Michigan homes.
A reliable and responsive contractor known for its excellent customer service and 24/7 emergency response. They are a preferred vendor for several national insurance companies due to their thorough damage assessment and detailed documentation for claims. They provide comprehensive services from minor repairs to complete commercial re-roofing projects.
The roofing market in Empire, MI, is heavily influenced by its unique climate on the shore of Lake Michigan. Contractors must be experts in designing and installing roofs that can handle extreme weather, including prolific lake-effect snowfall (100+ inches annually), high winds, and freeze-thaw cycles. The local architecture features a mix of historic homes, modern builds, and commercial properties, all requiring durable, weather-resistant solutions. Expertise in navigating insurance claims for wind and hail damage is a critical service. The market is competitive but dominated by a few established, highly-rated local providers.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Empire regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about roofing services in Empire, Michigan.
For a typical home in Empire, a full asphalt shingle roof replacement generally ranges from $8,500 to $15,000, though complex roofs can exceed this. Key cost factors include the roof's size and pitch, the need for decking repair (common with older homes), and the quality of shingles chosen. Michigan's price for materials and labor is competitive, but the remote nature of the Leelanau Peninsula can sometimes add a slight premium for travel and logistics for some contractors.
The ideal window for roofing in Empire is typically late spring through early fall (May to October), avoiding the deep winter snows and unpredictable spring rains. Summer offers the most reliable dry, warm weather for proper shingle adhesion. However, scheduling early is critical, as reputable local roofers book up quickly for this short seasonal window, and fall projects risk being delayed by early lake-effect snowstorms off Lake Michigan.
Yes, all roofing work in Empire must comply with the Michigan Residential Code, which includes specific requirements for ice and water shield. Due to our heavy snowfall, code mandates this waterproof underlayment be installed at least 24 inches from the eaves inside the exterior wall line. Additionally, you must obtain a building permit from the Empire Village office or Empire Township for a full re-roof, which includes an inspection to ensure compliance.
Prioritize contractors who are licensed, insured, and have a proven physical presence in Northwest Michigan. Ask for local references in Empire or nearby towns like Glen Arbor, and verify they have experience handling the wind and snow loads common here. It's also wise to check their standing with the Better Business Bureau and ensure they offer a strong workmanship warranty in addition to the manufacturer's shingle warranty.
For maximum durability against Empire's weather, impact-resistant asphalt shingles (Class 3 or 4) are a top choice for handling hail and wind-driven debris. Metal roofing is also an excellent, long-lasting option for shedding snow quickly and withstanding high winds. Whichever material you choose, ensure proper installation with adequate attic ventilation to prevent ice dam formation, which is a major concern in our climate.